It's clear that some people encounter overwhelming stressors in their lives. I know of no one whose life is filled with joy and without disappointments. But some among us seem to have more burdens than others.

I'm amazed at the resiliency and fortitude of those who push on in the face of overwhelming sadness and disappointment. There's no easy formula for their durability, but there are consistent themes and you see them in the comments people have posted:

Connect to a power, an energy or a karma over and above yourself from which you can draw comfort and strength.

Reach out to family and friends who reassure you that, "You are a decent person. Yes, you're doing everything you can, but there are limits to what you can do so you need to take care of yourself."

Find someone to listen. Everyone needs to be heard and to feel validated. Find someone who can listen to your woes with kindness, concern and compassion.

Think of these as the way out of the darkness and toward the light. Best wishes and stay well.

Legal Conditions and Terms

Reprint Permissions

A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.